Community News

News Release: Closure areas open on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park following the Dragon Fire

August 26, 2022

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. -Effective immediately, all Dragon Fire closure areas on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park have been reopened to the public. These areas include the Tiyo Point Trail, the Widforss and Outlet Canyon backcountry use areas, and the Widforss Forest Trail.

The 1,362-acre lightning-caused fire began on July 17, 2022. The Dragon Fire has been allowed to fulfill its natural role within a fire-dependent ecosystem.

Visitors should be alert to the following post-wildfire environmental hazards:

·     Storms resulting in flash flooding that could wash out roads and initiate debris flows.

·     Unstable burned trees (snags) that could fall or shed large limbs.

·     Eroded and very rough roads resulting in dangerous driving conditions.

·     Unstable terrain with potential for rolling debris (logs, rocks, boulders, etc.).

·     Burned out tree stump holes that could cause injury if stepped in.

·     Blowing dust on roads and hillsides.

Grand Canyon National Park remains in stage 1 fire restrictions which requires campfires always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.

Please visit https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/management/firemanagement.htm for additional information about wildland fire at Grand Canyon National Park.